Malignant Renovation

[Cap'n Kirk]

We are supposed to put-in Wed. but have a couple of snags. I took out the knot meter in our 1995, 29.5 Hunter last fall to allow fresh air in and now we can't get it back in. It has slots for two O-rings so we put those on with some vaseline; it goes in but for two inches so the collar won't thread. Now we can't even get it out! (Also, we assume the arrow on top points to the bow?)Secondly, we can't get the two fore screws off the mast step in order to recaulk it (previous owner said it leaked.) Hacksaw won't fit under and can't back out the phillips screws from inside or out and its quickly stripping the head. Thanks for any help-everyone has been great looking after our poor souls.

 

[Les Andersen]

o-rings

Kirk,There should be a plug that also fits the knot meter thru hull. I would use it instead of the knot meter itself when trying something like this. But, it sounds like there might be something out of alignment in the thru hull. Not sure why but try inserting the plug into the hole from the outside after you get the unit out. If the plug won't fit the unit itself won't either. Also try it with only 1 o-ring. 2 aren't really necessary. There is usually either an arrow or a notch and slot that line up for fore/aft alignment. It should slide in fairly easily, no force necessary. I am betting you put o-rings that are too fat and they are binding in the shaft or too small and they have slid together and are binding. to get them out try some WD-40 and replace the rings as the oil in WD-40 will ruin them. Also vaseline should not be used with o-rings. Use a plumbers grease that won't break down the rubber. Same with impellers.Good luckLess/v Mutual Fun.

 

[Ralph Johnstone]

The screws in the mast step ..........

.... are probably being firmly held by the existing caulk ......... and it's probably the dreaded 3M 5200.Before the heads are completely stripped, try heating the machine screws to about 250-300 deg. F from below with a small propane pencil torch if possible. This will often soften the 5200 to a point where it will release. Should be done quickly to avoid damage to adjacent glass.Good Luck,s/v Island Hunter

 

[Tim Leighton]

TRY NEW "O" RINGS

You probably already tried this, but if not, try using new "O" rings. I STRONGLY disagree with the posting suggesting using only 1. There is a good reason there are 2....IF ONE FAILS THE OTHER WILL KEEP YOUR BOAT FROM SLOWLY SINKING!!! Let us know what you figure out!Tim L. (S/V "TIDE")